Code of Hammurabi

1754 BCE · Babil, Mezopotamya · political

Around 1754 BCE, the Babylonian King Hammurabi had his code of 282 articles carved onto a massive basalt stele.

Known for the principle of "an eye for an eye" (retribution), the laws comprehensively regulated property, trade, family, slavery, and criminal law. Although they included penalties that varied by social class, they represent the most magnificent early example of the state's effort to bind justice to written and publicly accessible rules.

Related civilizations

Frequently asked questions

What was Code of Hammurabi?
Around 1754 BCE, the Babylonian King Hammurabi had his code of 282 articles carved onto a massive basalt stele.
When did Code of Hammurabi happen?
1754 BCE
Where did Code of Hammurabi take place?
Babil, Mezopotamya